Blood-based bioenergetics: a liquid biopsy of mitochondrial dysfunction in disease

Mitochondria operate as hubs of cellular metabolism that execute important regulatory functions. Damaged/dysfunctional mitochondria are recognized as major pathogenic contributors to many common human diseases. Assessment of mitochondrial function relies upon invasive tissue biopsies; peripheral blood cells, specifically platelets, have emerged as an ideal candidate for mitochondrial function assessment. Accessibility and documented pathology-related dysfunction have prompted investigation into the role of platelets in disease, the contribution of platelet mitochondria to pathophysiology, and the capacity of platelets to reflect systemic mitochondrial health. Platelet mitochondrial bioenergetics are being investigated in neurodegenerative and cardiopulmonary diseases, infection, diabetes, and other (patho)physiological states such as aging and pregnancy. Early findings support the use of platelets as a biomarker for mitochondrial functional health.